Brian Heaton

So sorry for your loss. I wish I had a chance to meet the guy.

In 1994 Brian gave me my first Job and an opportunity of a lifetime! I was a soon to be graduating Industrial Design student from Ontario College of Art and Design, Brian came to our school to interview the graduating class for an opportunity as a hockey goalie equipment designer, in which you would have to move to Harrow Ontario! I really had no interest in designing goalie equipment or moving to Harrow Ontario, I went to the interview to hone my interview skills for other upcoming interviews for jobs I would actually want… but after 45 minutes with Brian, which I will remember for the rest of my life, Brian had unknowingly convinced me he was the person I wanted to work for. A few weeks later when he called me and offered me the job, I gladly took it and made the move to Harrow Ontario. Over the next four and a half years I worked with Brian designing goalie equipment for Heaton and Koho as well as equipment for Jofa. Brian welcomed me into his loving family and gave me freedom as a young designer that few young designers get, and for this I will always be grateful.
I pass my deepest condolences on to Sally and the Heaton family, Brian will be missed by all who he has touched.
I apologize for this late entry as I presently live in China and just received the news this morning. Upon receiving this news and thinking about what Brian’s influence has meant to my life and carrier, I am saddened by the thought that my wife and two boys will never be able to meet Brian and meet the man that gave me my first opportunity and taught me the skills that I still use to this day!

My first contact with Heaton came with the Heaton line of goalie gear that Marty Brodeur wore during his rookie season. The red/black/white pattern was unmistakably eye-catching and as Brodeur's career skyrocketed, so did my interest and attachment to the Heaton brand. Of course, first chance I had to buy my first piece of brand new gear, I looked to Heaton first. The Heaton stylized script was classy and made me feel the better for having his letters on my gear. I'm hoping that my Heaton stick never breaks.

I never had the opportunity to meet or talk with Mr. Heaton, but if I could say something, it would be to thank him for being one of the few to devote his life and career towards helping the few and the eccentric folks playing the most un-appreciated position in all of sports. :)

RIP Mr. Heaton. Goalies around the world are mourning your loss.

Dear Sally and Heaton Family. We are sorry to hear of Brian`s passing, and wish God`s comfort to you in this time sorrow. My wife Elizabeth worked for Brian for many years while we lived in Harrow. Again our condolences go to you and yours.

I'm sorry to hear the passing of Brian.It's a sad day for all goalies.

I am saddened by the loss of not only a great innovator but of a person as well. My condolences to your family. Mr Heaton influenced me as a goaltender from the day I picked up a stick, which happened to be the Pro90z.

Dear Sally,
Bob and I are so saddened to hear of Brians passing. Even tho it has been some time since we have been together, we remember fondly the good times we always enjoyed with you both. Brian was a kind loving person, as you well know.

We send to you and your family our deepest sympathy, prayers and love.
Bob and Joan

The Heaton Family,
We are very sad to hear of Brians passing. I had the pleasure of working for him many years ago.Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.

My prayer's go out to Sally and family, Brian was always ready to give a hand and did just that when I moved back to Ontario tailoring my horse to several events. Brian will be sorely miss for his inspiration in Reining.

Neil V

Sally,
I still just can't find the words, we are so truly and deeply sorry. You are close in our thoughts and many prayers are being said for you and your family. I will never forget Brian, or watching the two of you ride together and share in all of the highs and lows of horse showing, not only for yourselves, but for all of your fellow competitors and friends as well.
May God Be With You - We Love You
Lorrie Larock and Lacey Siemonsen

Sally - You and Brian provided all of us with the greatest demonstration of true love. The love you shared for another was obvious to those who were privileged enough to witness it. My last memory of Brian was sitting with him, watching you ride and he told me how happy he was that the two of you were able to share that passion and how much more fun it became after you were involved. Brian's big smile, huge heart and wonderful sense of humour will never be forgotten, nore will his impact in the reining community both as a competitor and a friend. May God bless you with strength during this time and please know you will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Our deepest sympathy to Brian's family and friends. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

The Corey Family

Hi Sally..
You might remember me, parked beside you at Black's just last month?
I didn't have much chance to know either of you, but Brian gave me sound advice at the first reining show I went to.
Reining friends have told me how you honored your husband through his memorial.
Proverbs 31:10-12 "..A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
May God's word bring you peace.

Sally and family,
Our deepest sympathy. We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Brian will be missed, he had such an incredible kind, gentle spirit. Know that our prayers are with you.

sally & family
I am sorry for your loss - Brian was a great man.

My deepest sympathy to the entire Heaton family. His legacy will live on forever!

All my love,
Deborah Heaton

Blessings to the memories and accomplishments of a dear family member and friend to many.

May the example of doing one's best & enjoying life be shared with others for years to come.

Love from a cousin,
Linda (Heaton) Grates
[daughter of Neil Heaton]

Dear Sally and Family..
Our prayer's and thought are with you at this time. Peace

Sally and family. I was shocked to learn of your loss. I have known Brian only from afar for many years, but his constant smile, helpfullness, kind way with horses and sheer enthusiasm for the sport of Reining were quite infectious and inspiring. And of course, his famous freestyle routines were legendary. Who could ever forget Singin' in the Rain, or his entry in the very first Ladies Invitational?
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Brian will be greatly missed.

To the Heaton Family,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Brian will be greatly missed. May God give you courage and strength during this time and may your memories give you comfort.
Patty, Allan, & Sydney Kotow

Brian,

I don't know what to say, other than I am still in shock since I heard the news a few days back.

I've always admired your professionalism and personality the past years and you will always continue to inspire me. You are nothing short of a genius and a scholar. You have a talent that very few today posses.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Heaton Family

I worked for Brian "stuffing" goalie pads for Heaton in Oldcastle when I was in high school and loved it. He was a great boss and just a super guy to talk to and be around. I saw him again not that long ago and he was just as friendly and nice. I will always have fond memories of Brian and working for him. He made equipment for both me and my younger brother Brandon. One thing about Brian, it did not matter if you were a famous NHL goalie he made equipment for or if you were playing high school or minor hockey- he treated everybody with the same kindness and respect. My thoughts and prayers go out to Stephanie (who did a great job as my teacher assistant when I taught summer school) and the entire family for their loss.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sally,Stephanie and family.

To The Heaton Family,
We were sadden to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. You's will miss him dearly. God bless you all.

Dear Sally and family: I was shocked and deeply saddened when I heard of Brian's passing. From the first time we met in 1982, playing ball for the Barons, I found Brian always had a smile on his face and a spring in his step. My memories include the morning coffees during my real estate career and watching Brian as he worked his magic designing the first few pairs of goalie pads that would become legendary within the hockey world. We worked together as executives on the board of the Essex County Senior baseball league and I admired his good judgement and leadership. Over the years, I've run into Brian on occasion and always had a friendly conversation about life and what we've been up to since the last time we spoke. I will always be proud to call him a friend and offer my thoughts and condolences to the entire family.

Our deepest sympathy to you all. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.

I grew up 1 mile east of Harrow, ON, just across Highway 18 from the Heaton family and Hubert Heaton's Massey Ferguson farm equipment business. I've always looked up to Brian as a big brother and a role model, as he was 5 years older than me and seemed to know what he was doing. His sister Sandra was my babysitter. Since the Golden kids were little hellions, Sandra retired from baby sitting us after just a short period of time. Unknown to all, I had a little crush for Brian's younger sister Ann. Luv ya Ann!

Here's two of my favourite memories of Brian...

Brian taught me how to blow snot rockets. Just pinch your nose and blow, then flick your fingers. Fun stuff for a seven year old!

Just around the same time, I wanted to ride Brian's small horse. I got on it, but it didn't want to go. Brian took a switch from a nearby tree and just simply waved it in front of the beast and then it took off like a 426 c.i. hemi dragster on nitro methane. I held on to the thing for dear life! The horse travelled for about 100 feet at a full gallop. That was enough for me and I slid off the saddle onto the ground with a thump. I landed just beside a large rock and was very pleased not to plant my head on it!

Fun Times ! ! !

Ever since then, I've kept my eye on Brian and followed his life from Cooperalls to BRIAN'S, to HEATON, to his large house on Lake Erie and then BHG.

Sally, Marshall, Kimberly, Ryan and Stephanie. You can be so very proud of having such a great husband and father in your life.

Hubert, Sandra, Ann, Shelly and David...

God Bless You All!

I grew up 1 mile east of Harrow, ON, just across Highway 18 from the Heaton family and Hubert Heaton's Massey Ferguson farm equipment business. I've always looked up to Brian as a big brother and a role model, as he was 5 years older than me and seemed to know what he was doing. His sister Sandra was my baby sitter. Since the Golden kids were little hellions, Sandra retired from baby sitting us after just a short period of time. Unknown to all, I had a little crush for Brian's younger sister Ann. Luv ya Ann!

Here's two of my favourite memories of Brian...

Brian taught me how to blow snot rockets. Just pinch your nose and blow, then flick your fingers. Fun stuff for a seven year old!

Just around the same time, I wanted to ride Brian's small horse. I got on it, but it didn't want to go. Brian took a switch from a nearby tree and just simply waved it in front of the beast and then it took off like a 426 c.i. hemi dragster on nitro methane. I held on to the thing for dear life! The horse travelled for about 100 feet at a full gallop. That was enough for me and I slid off the saddle onto the ground with a thump. I landed just beside a large rock and was very pleased not to plant my head on it!

Fun Times ! ! !

Ever since then, I've kept my eye on Brian and followed his life from Cooperalls to BRIAN'S, to HEATON, to his large house on Lake Erie and then BHG.

Sally, Marshall, Kimberly, Ryan and Stephanie. You can be so very proud of having such a great husband and father in your life.

Hubert, Sandra, Ann, Shelly and David...

God Bless You All!

Sally, Steph and Family

We were deeply saddened to hear of Brian's sudden passing. Remember he was doing what he loved right to the end. Draw strength and happiness in that knowledge.
Our deepest sympathies in your time of sorrow
Rob & Tamara Fick (Curling Club Of Kingsville)

Sally know that you are close in our thoughts. We were so very shocked to here of Brians passing. When I think of Brian I'll always remember his wonderful smile and what a gracious competitor he was.
He will be missed.
Barb Young/Jake Neufeld

Sally and family, so sorry for your loss. I true gentleman and horseman. He will be treasured and missed. Anne Miskovsky, Harrow.

Sally & Family - My prayers, thoughts and Heart go out to you during this difficult time. Brian made a huge impact on so many people's lives, but what I loved most about him was his contageous smile and laugh. I will miss him so much and will remember him always. Please know that we are here for you during this time and forever after. Embrace the love around you and cherish the memories.
With so much Love

I was both shocked and sadden to learn of Brian's passing on Tuesday.
I always appreciated his design skills in our business. The hockey world will not be the same without him, that is for sure. He certainly left a wonderful legacy!

Cant believe it, only last week was I discussing goalie equipment with him. So knowledgable yet so kind. I remember a couple years ago when I first heard he was starting up BHG. I was so excited and had to be one of the first to have pads made. Brian had made pads for the best professional goalies all over the world and yet he had the time to spend a couple afternoons with me to go over the very specific details for my pads for junior hockey. (and show me the horses) What a guy!
Prayers go out to the Heaton family

Our sincere sympathy to the Heaton family. Hold every wonderful memory of Brian close to your hearts and remember that he will always be with you! He is your quardian angel watching over all of you from his saddle in the sky! Take care all of you! Robert,Kelley,Austin Welzel

Wow, I truly am rocked by all of this. I didn't really know the man aside from 3 phone calls with him while ordering goalie gear, but this is the guy who has been keeping me safe doing what I love most in life for years. There has not been one time in the past 15 years that I've stepped onto the ice or court without wearing something that was made by Mr. Heaton. I've owned a ton of his gear and I could not play without my 2 Heaton chest protectors. Those things are the most important pieces of gear I own by far. I have no doubt that every time from now on that I go to put that chest protector over my head I will think about Mr. Heaton. God knows he's been my guardian angel for years even before his passing. I'm sure that won't change now. RIP Mr. Heaton. You will be dearly missed!

Brian and I attended artschool together and later worked together as design partners at Cooper Canada. In between it all playing hockey, talking about sports, art and life. It will be those memories of Brian that will forever continue to enrich my life. As will the experiencing of Brian's passion for life and how he lived it to it's fullest.
My condolences to all the Heaton family, and I know your memories of your life next to Brian will give you comfort and strength.

Our paryers go out to all of your family at this hard time.

The staff of Boddam Custom Hockey would like to extend their sincere sympathy for your loss. He made a great impact on the hockey industry, and will be sadly missed.

Our thoughts are with you Marshall, Kim, Henry and the rest of the family. Sorry but I can't come down for the service.

Our condolences on the loss of such a good man. You are in our thoughts and prayers thru this difficult time. Take comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of time spent together.

Heaton Family- my deepest condolences-as a fellow hockey salesman like Brian was it was my pleasure to have met him and called him a friend. He was a true class act-gentleman,honest and true.
he will be missed.

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we extend our sympathies to all of the family. Along with our son Ross, we will remember wonderful baseball years when Brian coached the travel team. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Sally - Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. In times like these, we look back on the many good memories we share. I remember meeting with Mike Richter's young son who was more excited about my knowing "Brian Heaton" than about being the son of a famous goalie. Janet and I will be there for you during this difficult time. I know your spirits will be lifted by the many good memories you have of Brian, and the legacy he has left.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Our thoughts are with Sally and the Heaton family at this time. The memories playing ball for many years with "Heater" on the Leamington Barons will always be remember.

It was with great sadness to hear of Brian's passing.We will always remember his warm and genuine smile. Our sincere sympathy at this time of your loss. John and Ann Ducharme

Sally and family,
I pray that God will give you the strength you need to get through this, and that you will eventually have understanding and peace. Brian will be greatly missed by the reining community. He was always smiling, and always had a pleasant word, joke or a helping hand. He passed on doing what he loved.

Our deepest sympathy to the Heaton family. We were at his farm last year and he allowed my son Trevor to feed the horses after we picked up his new blocker and glove. Just a wonderful person and always willing to go the extra step for you.
He will be truly missed.
The Gelinas Family

To the Heaton family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember Brian during our high school days as a gifted athlete, a supportive team mate, a talented artist, and a good friend. We have followed his achievements through the years as he became a successful and well known business man. We are saddened to hear of his passing. May God be with you during this trying time.

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
-Goal Pad Girl-

My deepest sympathy to you and your family Sal.
The good Lord now has a truly creative and enthusiastic gentleman at his side. I am blessed to have known both of you on such a personel level. I share the joy of Brians" Eddie" and know of the passion involved. I rejoice in his victories but am sadded at your lost of a good husband, friend, father and grandfather taken too soon. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and in the months ahead. Keep in touch, I'll be there for you.

Dear Sally & family: my thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May the many memories bring you comfort in your time of need.
Brian was my first "boss" and I am so thankful that he gave me that opportunity to work for him for over 15 years. He taught me so much!
He will always be remembered!

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Sally & Heaton Families, My deepest sympathies. I've always been proud to say that I knew Brian Heaton, and proud that he was from Harrow. Since I was able to cross the road by myself, Brian always took time to talk or ask how my family was doing.
He's had a wonderful life, and raised some really great children. Thinking of you all Ryan, Marsh, Stephanie, Sally, Anne, Sandra & Hubert.

To The Heaton Family

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.

We will always remember the last minute SOS calls to Brian "my armour or pads need to be altered",and he did them right away. We recall the pride that Brian and Sally excuded when showing us a new horse or foal but most of all the elation of their new grandson. We will miss those short but interesting visits.
Tom and Marjorie Casey Ottawa
Amanda Hayward #30 Ottawa

Sally and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys. We will miss Brian the most every weekend at shows. He was always very helpful and positive to everyone.

What a tragic loss, Brian will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We will see you on the weekend.

Love Dan & Lori Shuttleworth

To the Heaton family:

You have my deepest sympathy

Condolences to the Heaton family, may your pain be eased by knowing how many people will greatly miss Brian, and the fact that the Heaton name will forever be synonymous with quality goalie gear made by a legendary man. I know I'll be hanging my old Helite VI's on my wall.

Sally and Family, we were deeply sorrowed when we heard the news of Brian's passing. Brian was a great and avid curler for years and I really enjoyed playing with and against him in the leagues he participated in and really enjoyed him as a partner in the Bonspiels. He will be missed and we will be thinking of you during these tough times, God Bless.
Denny and Barb Laurin

Stephanie and Heaton Family,
our deepest and sincerest condolences on the passing of your dad and husband. We will all be thinking of you in this hard and sad time.

We are very sorry to hear the news about Brian. To Sally and Family, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Let your memories bring you comfort at this time of sorrow.

Sally, Rick and I missed this year's OBBO and just heard of Brian's passing. We were shocked by the news and just couldn't believe what we were hearing, especially after last year's fall off his horse. Our hearts go out to you and your family. A true loss to the equine community. Words cannot express our deepest sorrow for your loss.

To Marshall, Kim, Henry and the Heaton Family. Please accept our sincerest condolences at this terribly sad time.

Our deepest condolences goes out to all the Heaton family. He will be greatly missed.

What a tragic loss to your family and to everyone he touched. Brian was loved by so many and we will all miss him. He was literally having the ride of his life when he went, but it was much, much too early. We are so very sorry and our prayers are with you all.

We are saddenned by your loss, I played ball with "Heater" and have fond memories of times with him with the Leamington Barons.Sally we will continue to pray for you and your family.

Sally, our thoughts and prayers our with you and your family at this difficult time. Brian's infectious smile, enthusiasm and sportsmanship will be truly missed.

To Brians family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Brian will be sadly be missed but never forgotten.

Dear Heaton family, sorry to hear about the loss of Brian, he will always be remembered and sadly missed. My thoughts go out to you at this time of sorrow.

My thoughts & loving energy go out to Sally & the rest of Brian's family during this time.

In time, this great sorrow will pass & only the loving memories will remain.

Brian was loved by everyone. And will be surely missed by everyone.

We can all be comforted in knowing that his spirit has now moved on and will be a guide from above to Sally & his family.

My heart goes out to all of you during this time as I remember what it was like to be widowed.

Blessings,

Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With love and sympathy,

Our condolences to Sally and all the Heaton family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Pam McFadden & Chris Beaune

Please accept me sincere regrets of Brian's death. Having played baseball in Leamington for several seasons, I had great respect & friendship.

Sally ,Marshall,Ryan and Stephanie, our thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this difficult time and our deepest sympathy's. Brian is a good friend and i will miss him very much, we have been friends for a very long time and he always had a smile for me and treated me like a little brother. Best regards Kevin and Louann Voegeli

Sorry to hear of the passing of Brian. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayer are with you all.

My Name is Richard. I reside in Gatineau in the province of Quebec. I emailed Brian and had a few phone conversations with him over the past 2-3 years. His ease of conversation and calm demeanour and extensive knowledge was a welcomed gift to us all goalies and anyone who's had a chance to make his acquaintance. He's been a good source of guidance for many, including i, in business and hockey. He leaves us with many many good memories.

Thx Brian, for everything. I'll miss you...

My deepest condolences to family and friends. May you be strong through and through.

Rich

From the Staff of Val-Don Enterprises / Lakeview Molded Plastics.
Your new inventive designs and visits to our shop will be sadly missed.
- Don, Perry, Mike, Jake, Robert, Isabel, Dave, Cindy, Tanya and staff.

Brian, You are a legend and an inspiration. R.I.P.

Sally and family;
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

May God be with you Sally, family and Hubert at this time. Brian was a wonderful person to know. I watched him grow for many years. I will keep all of you in my prayers.

Dear Sally and familyA very select few go to rest doing what they love. May memories comfort you at this most difficult time.

I wish to offer my condolences to Brian's family. He will greatly missed as he was truly an inspiration to all.

Pam Lalonde